The Atlas Lions roar! World Cup heroes Morocco dominant in Africa Cup of Nations opener against 10-man Tanzania

Morocco took the lead when Tanzania goalkeeper Aishi Salum Manula saved a free-kick and it fell in front of Romain Sass, who fired into the net. Morocco continued to dominate against the underdogs and had the better of the chances. Tanzania managed just two shots but failed to hit the target.

The challenge got even more daunting for Tanzania when Novatus Miroshi was sent off for a second yellow card after 70 minutes. Morocco were able to capitalise on the man advantage when Azzedine Ounahi fired in a second and Youssef En-Nesyri then rolled in a third which was initially disallowed but then given after a VAR review.

Ounahi was a bright one throughout the 90 minutes for Morocco. He pitched in with shots, tackles and neat, key passes, and his goal was a well-deserved reward for his efforts throughout the game.

Tanzania were never on top and barely looked like scoring, but they were at least hanging on for the most part of the game. Any hope they had evaporated after 70 minutes when Miroshi came flying in with a bad tackle and received his marching orders. Morocco doubled their lead seven minutes later and added a third in the 80th minute.

Morocco will hope to build on their excellent start when they take on DR Congo on Sunday, while Tanzania will attempt to bounce back when they meet Zambia that same day.